Environmental impacts of clinical practice are increasingly an area of focus internationally.  In this study, we surveyed members of the I Irish Society of Gastroenterology to get a better understanding of current attitudes towards Green Endoscopy practices and the environmental impact of conference attendance in Ireland. We hope that the results of this study can guide policy development in Green Endoscopy nationally, and contribute to strategies for reducing the carbon footprint of Conferences globally.

An anonymous 21 question survey using Microsoft Forms was distributed via email to members of the  Irish Society of Gastroenterology. The age profile and position of responders was recorded, as was their region of practice.  We assessed the prevalence of Green Endoscopy initiatives in Endoscopy Units by region, awareness of Green Endoscopy policies , and what barriers exist  to introducing such policies locally. Data regarding the number of conferences attended annually, both nationally and internationally, was recorded, as were the methods of transport used to attend these conferences. We collected data regarding responders attitudes towards virtual conference attendance and the environmental impact of conferences. 

A total of 65 responses were received from Consultants(n=25) , GI trainees (n=14), Endoscopy Nurses (n= 21), Nurse Endoscopists (n=4). The majority (52 %) were aged 30-39 (n = 34) and worked in urban areas (72%). 40% of those surveyed said that their unit had a Green endoscopy programme (n= 26), and 69% of those who responded stated that their endoscopy unit recycled green waste (n=45). 55% of respondents confirmed that their endoscopy unit did adhere to guideline recommended biopsy protocols (n=36). 

18% of those who responded were aware of barriers to implementing a green endoscopy initiative (n= 14), reporting issues with waste segregation or a lack of leadership for policy rollout. 60% of respondents said that their unit had a digital system for endoscopy appointments (n=39). 58% of respondents attended 1-2 conferences annually (n = 38), 38% attended 3-5 conferences annually (n= 25) and 3% attended more than 5 conferences annually (n= 2 ), with in-person attendance favoured by 91% (n=59). The reasons for attending included CPD (46%, n=30), abstract presentation(20%, n=13),and networking purposes (22%, n=14). Conference attendance increased for some (20%, n=13), decreased for others (29%, n=19) or had not changed (51%, n= 33). 94% of respondents attended 1-2 conferences in Ireland annually. 94% of those who responded stated that they attended 1-2 conferences outside of Ireland annually. For conferences within Ireland, the preferred method of transport was by car (single occupancy) (57%, n=37), car pool (34%, n=22), or train (9%, n=6). Most reported gaining more knowledge from in-person attendance (85%, n=55). The environmental impact of attending a conference was a factor for 26% (n= 17) but not for 38% (n=25) . If available in advance, the predicted environmental impact of a conference would be a factor in attending for 66% (n = 43).

This survey captured attitudes of various Endoscopy practitioners in Ireland. Responses showed there is scope for improved rollout of green endoscopy initiatives in Irish hospitals, particularly for recycling of green waste part. Our survey also showed that most individuals prefer in-person conference attendance for networking and learning opportunities. Surprisingly, only a third take the environmental impact of conferences into account when deciding to attend. This survey may suggest that advanced awareness of predicted environmental impact, along with choosing conference location with good public transport options, may help to reduce the environmental impact of conferences in the future. We hope that this study contributes to policy development for the reduction of the environmental impact of our practice nationally going forward.